TRACEY Collins spotted an excellent opportunity for in-form Captain Joy last Saturday and the grey duly obliged in a fast track qualifier for the Ladbrokes Mile at Lingfield.

Ridden by Pat Smullen, the 9/4 favourite tracked outsider Bravo Echo and took it up before the furlong pole, running on well to beat Alfred Hutchinson by just over a length with classy French challenger Dastarhon well held in third.

Unsuccessful at Meydan last year, the six-year-old was given a light summer but has been in fine form of late, winning two handicaps under big weights before taking in this conditions event.

He is happier on Polytrack than turf and has won six times at Dundalk. He will almost certainly return to Lingfield for the Ladbrokes Final on All Weather Championships day on Good Friday.

“He really likes this surface and has got more relaxed,” Collins said. “He was quite highly-strung as a young horse.”

The big day should be a real international affair with Dastarhon, second in the French Guineas a couple of years ago, another possible. However, his trainer Pia Brandt also has Fresles, already the winner of a Deauville qualifier.

Chelmsford charms on its opening day

CHELMSFORD City, the former Great Leighs, opened last Sunday and the reaction of owners, trainers, jockeys and invited guests was favourable.

The press also welcomed the return of the polytrack venue and powerful stables were well represented, with Charlie Appleby and John Gosden both winning two races.

Adam Kirby rode the first winner, Godolphin’s Tryster (2/1 favourite) in a 10-furlong handicap and Appleby also took the sprint with 7/2 chance Blue Aegean in the famous blue colours.

Gosden’s Zamoura only just scrambled in at 2/5 in the maiden fillies’ event but 11/4 chance Tempus Temporis coasted home in the Betsi Golden Mile Conditions Stakes.